Steven Spielberg, who serves as executive producer on the hit show, is thrilled to have Jennifer guest starring with the talented cast.

“First ‘Dreamgirls,’ now ‘Smash.’ I have no doubt Jennifer will continue to deliver even more inspiration to the audience responsible for giving us a second season on NBC,” he said.

Robert Greenblatt, Chairman of NBC Entertainment, also chimed in regarding the casting news, saying, “This series is a showcase for some of the best musical talent in the business and that’s a fitting description for Jennifer Hudson.

“Her character will represent someone who reached their Broadway dream but also paid a price for it,” he added.

“Smash” returns to NBC in early 2013.

--Erin O’Sullivan

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